Aims of the department

• To provide a rewarding and interactive learning experience for students at all levels
• To offer the learning and application of Business  theory, bringing text book knowledge alive
• To offer a diverse range of transferable skills and useful knowledge in preparation for further study and/or working life

In addition to the syllabus we do endeavour to develop our students’ talents and sense of responsibility through offering the opportunity to participate in activities outside of the classroom. Many of our students go on to study business-related subjects in higher education or take up apprenticeships in the workplace.

Key Stage 4

GCSE AQA

The course is designed to encourage candidates to consider the practical application of business and economic concepts. The units provides the opportunity to explore the theories and concepts in the context of events in the business and economic world.

Students need to be aware of the impact business in the real world has on the four functional area of business:

• Business Operations
• Human Resources
• Marketing
• Finance

The qualification is linear.  Linear means that students will sit all their exams at the end of the course.

Subject Content

• Business in the Real World
• Influences on Business
• Business Operations
• Human Resources
• Marketing
• Finance

Assessments

Paper 1:          Influences of Operations and HRM on Business Activity

What's Assessed

Business in the Real World / Influences on Business / Business Operations /  Human Resources

How it's Assessed

Written Exam:  1 hour 45 minutes.     90 Marks.      50% of GCSE.                        

Paper 2:            Influences of Marketing and Finance on Business Activity

What's Assessed

Business in the Real World / Influences on Business /  Marketing / Finance

How it's Assessed

Written Exam: 1 hour 45 minutes.  90 Marks.   50% of GCSE.

NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Business and Enterprise

V Certificates are vocationally related qualifications, where learners develop knowledge and understanding by applying their learning and skills in a work-related context.  They are the equivalent of a GCSE.

The aim is to engage students to take responsibility for their own learning and to develop skills that are essential for the modern-day workplace.  These skills include: team working; working from a prescribed brief; working to deadlines; presenting information effectively; and accurately completing administrative tasks and processes.  V Certs motivate learners, and open doors to progression into further study and responsibility within the workplace.

Assessment

The assessment approach of the course allows learners to receive feedback on their progress througout the course as they provide evidence towards the grading criteria.  Evidence for assessment may be generated through a range of diverse activities including assignment and project work, case studies, workplace assessment, role play and oral presentation.  The modules covered are:

• Introduction to Business and Enterprise
• Marketing for Business and Enterprise
• Finance for Business and Enterprise
• Plan, develop and participate in a business or enterprise project